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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.